“I believe that the most important skill a tutor and student build together should be the ability to connect and create a tutoring relationship. The first thing I do with any child is get to know them, using my active listening skills to remember their hobbies and interests.”
I know what their siblings’ names are, what their favourite colour is, what pets they have. This may not seem important, but asking “how is Rufus the dog?” shows my members that I see them as an individual.
Most of my members will spend their days at school in a class of 30+ pupils. I know from my own teaching experience in primary and secondary schools how difficult it can be to make sure every pupil is catered for. At Explore Learning we are able to go that extra step and really tailor each session to each pupil.
I have a motto that I tell all of my members: ‘It doesn’t matter if we get it right or wrong. An incorrect answer is an opportunity to learn something new’. It’s something I truly believe and something the children I tutor respond really well to. It takes the pressure off the need to be perfect and instead focuses them on how to overcome challenges and be a better learner.
By building a relationship with the child founded on respect, my members trust me. That, in turn, means that a child can really open up to me and engage in their learning journey ever.